Current problems in geriatrics and radiology. Teleradiogy: organization and evaluation

The realization of radiological examinations in the elderly population must be adjusted to the needs of patients that usually have health problems and very little patience. Its organization must be thought as a whole: appointment, reception of an awaited patient, human accompaniment allowing good cooperation, nursing support, and prompt availability of reports. Adapted equipment facilitates the examination: stretchers to raise and carry invalid patients, digital radiography. Structural linking of radiology and geriatric units with a departmental support avoids the isolation of medical and ancillary staff, reinforce the bonds with geriatricians and facilitates the access to CT before any contrast-enhanced (barium, iodinated) examination. Teleradiology is a complementary tool of making the medical support available and reinforce the interactivity with geriatricians. The simplicity of the questions in current geriatrics makes it possible to use teleradiology in daily practice.